Isco revels in 'excellent' Real Madrid win

The 21-year-old scored his side’s second in their 3-0 thrashing of Dortmund on Wednesday and admitted his starting berth was a pleasant surprise

Isco revelled in Real Madrid’s “excellent” display after they romped to a 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Gareth Bale grabbed an early opener before Isco doubled the lead before half-time, with Cristiano Ronaldo rounding off the scoring to equal Lionel Messi’s record for goals scored in a single Champions League season.

Isco was chosen to start alongside Luka Modric and Xabi Alonso after Angel Di Maria was ruled out not long before kick-off and – as well as praising his team-mates for the win – the attacking midfielder admits being chosen to start was a surprise.

“It’s an excellent result. I’m very happy that I scored and also for the clean sheet,” the 21-year-old told reporters.

“Pepe and the rest of the defence performed to a very high level. So did the rest of the team. It’s a deserved victory.

“I was surprised to be called when Angel felt sick but we must always be ready to play. I enjoyed having the chance to show the coach I can play in any formation and in any position.

“I loved being applauded off by the fans at the end.”

Dortmund knocked Madrid out in the semi-final stage last season but face a seemingly impossible task to repeat that feat ahead of the second leg next Tuesday.